Behind the public neutrality, the private conversations paint a far less composed picture of California’s looming governor’s race.
Gavin Newsom, now in the final stretch of his term, has refused to endorse a successor. Officially, he frames the Democratic field as deep and capable, offering polished statements about “talent and vision” and confidence in voters to decide. But reporting from CNN and others suggests that, in private, his tone has been markedly sharper—and far less reassuring.
Among the leading Democratic contenders, billionaire Tom Steyer has drawn particular frustration. Despite gaining traction in early polling, Newsom has reportedly dismissed him as “all over the place,” a critique that hints at concerns over consistency or message discipline rather than ideology alone.
Former Rep. Katie Porter, another prominent figure in the race, has been characterized by Newsom’s circle as a potential threat to the state’s business climate, with warnings that her approach to corporate taxation could push companies out of California.
These aren’t minor quibbles. They point to a broader unease within the party as the race remains unsettled, fragmented, and increasingly unpredictable.
Complicating matters further is the collapse of Eric Swalwell’s campaign. Once a recognizable name in the field, his abrupt exit—followed by his resignation from Congress—has reshuffled the dynamics almost overnight. The allegations surrounding Swalwell, including claims of sexual assault and misconduct, have continued to expand, drawing sustained media attention and adding a volatile undercurrent to an already unstable race.
Reports tying campaign spending to a Los Angeles hotel during the period in question have only intensified scrutiny, though those details remain part of ongoing coverage rather than resolved findings.
With Swalwell out, the vacuum has allowed both Steyer and Republican candidate Steve Hilton to rise in surveys, raising a scenario that some Democrats find increasingly uncomfortable: the possibility of a fractured vote leading to unexpected outcomes in California’s primary system.
Newsom’s hesitation to intervene publicly comes at a moment when pressure is mounting. Party figures are urging him to consolidate support or at least steer the conversation, particularly to avoid a situation where two Republicans could advance. Yet even he has acknowledged a degree of disengagement, admitting he may not be as involved “as perhaps I might need to be.”
For now, the governor remains on the sidelines—publicly composed, privately critical—while the race to replace him grows more unsettled by the week.
